Four derivatives of kojic acid were synthesized and their inhibitory activities against tyrosinase were evaluated. The C-2 hydroxymethyl and C-7 hydroxyl of kojic acid were replaced by carboxylate and amine, respectively. These derivatives were coupled to L-phenylalanine, producing two amide compounds. The carboxylate derivative (3), its amide compound (5), and the amine derivative (7) were weak inhibitors. The amide compound (9) where amine derivative (7) coupled to L-phenylalanine showed strong inhibitory activity ($IC_{50}=24.6{;}{mu}M$) comparable to kojic acid.